Tembe-Rochin
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Tembe-Rochin
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This weapon
is the most glamorous of the Ryukyu system and exudes a feeling
of history long gone. The usage however is more akin to a combination
of Zulu fighting and European sword and small shield fighting.
The Tembe (Shield) can be made of various material but is commonly
found in vine or cane, metal, or for presentation, in turtle
shell. The shield size is generally about 45 cm long and 38
cm wide. The Rochin (Short spear) is cut with the length of
the shaft being the same distance as the forearm to the elbow
if it is being held in the hand. The spearhead then protrudes
from the shaft and can be found in many differing designs. The
favored style has an expanded middle section before the point,
which is twisted upon insertion to make the wound larger. The
weight of the blade is critical for the spear usage, which is
swiveled between the fingers to use both ends, smashing with
the butt end and stabbing with the blade end.
The techniques are circular to avoid too much direct contact
on the shield and the short spear is predominantly used in an
upward stabbing motion, piercing armor under the rib cage, armpits,
and throat. The techniques of the Tembe-Rochin are unique to
shield and spear usage.
